Intraocular Hypertension (IOH) FAQ
What causes Intraocular Hypertension?
Causes include overproduction of aqueous humor, impaired drainage, or a combination of both, often with unknown (idiopathic) origins.
Is IOH always a precursor to glaucoma?
No, not all cases of IOH progress to glaucoma; regular monitoring is crucial for early detection of potential optic nerve damage.
How is Intraocular Hypertension diagnosed?
Diagnosis involves a comprehensive eye exam, including tonometry to measure IOP, and optic nerve evaluation using ophthalmoscopy.
Can high eye pressure cause headaches?
Rarely; eye pressure typically doesn't cause headaches unless severely elevated, which is uncommon in IOH without glaucoma.
What are the risk factors for IOH?
Risk factors include age over 40, family history, high myopia, diabetes, and hypertension.
How often should IOP be checked in IOH?
Guidelines recommend every 3-6 months initially, then annually if stable, to monitor disease progression.
Are there lifestyle changes to help manage IOH?
Maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly, and reducing caffeine intake may help stabilize IOP.
Can Intraocular Hypertension be cured?
Currently, there's no cure; treatment focuses on lowering IOP to prevent potential glaucoma development.
Are eye drops the only treatment for IOH?
No, while eye drops are common, oral medications, laser procedures, or surgery may be recommended in resistant cases.
Can children develop Intraocular Hypertension?
Yes, though rare, congenital or developmental anomalies can lead to elevated IOP in children.
Does high IOP always mean vision loss?
No, vision remains unaffected in many IOH cases if managed properly to prevent glaucomatous damage.
How does diabetes affect IOH management?
Diabetes increases the risk of glaucoma; tighter IOP control and more frequent monitoring are necessary.
Are there risks to leaving IOH untreated?
Untreated elevated IOP increases the risk of developing glaucoma and potential irreversible vision loss.
Can I drive with Intraocular Hypertension?
Yes, as long as vision remains unaffected and meets legal driving standards in Malaysia.
Is surgery for IOH painful?
Most modern surgical procedures, like trabeculectomy, are performed under local anesthesia with minimal discomfort.
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